The latest on Barcelona's pursuit of Bayern striker Lewandowski
There are two key factors preventing the deal from being completed quickly
Robert Lewandowski could be Barcelona's star signing this summer. After missing out on Erling Haaland, Barça are looking elsewhere for a new striker and the Polish international has emerged as an option. "It will be a long summer," sporting director Mateu Alemany said recently as Barça move for one of the game's best goalscorers.
Lewandowski has played his part, revealing at the weekend his desire to leave Bayern Munich and not extend his contract, which expires in 2023. "It's possible this was my last game for Bayern," he said. "I can't say 100%, but it's possible. I won't sign a new contract and we have to find a solution for all parties."
In Munich, the hard line is diluting. They wanted him to stay until next year, but also won't ignore completely the request of someone who has given them so much for eight years. Their willingness to negotiate is bigger than it was. Now it's a question of Barça putting a reasonable offer on the table -- between €25m and €40m -- and Bayern finding a replacement.
Keeping in mind that Barça and Lewandowski have a verbal agreement over personal terms, the deal now depends on those two basic issues. Sasa Kalajdzic (VfB Stuttgart) has emerged as one striking option for them to sort the first issue. The second is Barça working out how they can pay a fee and affront Lewandowski's salary.
The latest reports suggest they will face competition for his signature, too, with Chelsea said to be keen on the 33-year-old goal-getter as well. The list of interested parties will only get bigger, too, the longer Barça take.
